Sony’s WF-1000XM6’s Are Finally Here

BY MUFARO MHARIWA
11 hours ago
3 min read

Three years after the release of its WF-1000XM5 earbuds, Sony has introduced the next generation in its flagship 1000X series, the Sony WF-1000XM6.

The new truly wireless earbuds arrive with a series of upgrades that many users had been anticipating, most notably improved noise cancelling, refined sound processing, stronger connectivity and a redesigned fit.

Alongside the launch, Sony has also introduced a new Sand Pink colour option for its Sony WH-1000XM6 over-ear headphones. The update for the WH-1000XM6 is cosmetic, with no hardware changes.

Improved noise cancelling performance

Sony claims the WF-1000XM6 delivers a 25% reduction in noise compared to the previous generation. The improvement is driven by the new HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3e, working alongside the Integrated Processor V2 and an upgraded microphone system with four microphones per earbud, up from three.

Performance in the mid-to-high frequency range has been enhanced in particular, targeting common environmental noise such as transport and café ambience. An Adaptive Noise Cancelling Optimiser analyses external sound and wearing conditions in real time, adjusting performance to suit both environment and ear fit.

The earbuds also ship with Sony’s Noise Isolation Earbud Tips, available in four sizes to improve passive isolation and overall comfort.

Refined sound, built with studio input

Under the hood, Sony has increased audio processing from 24-bit to 32-bit, while the QN3e processor supports an enhanced DAC amplifier for greater clarity and reduced distortion.

A newly developed driver unit combines a rigid dome for clearer high frequencies with a softer edge for deeper bass response. The company says the aim was to reduce distortion while maintaining high-resolution playback.

The WF-1000XM6 supports Hi-Res Audio Wireless, DSEE Extreme upscaling, 360 Reality Audio, head tracking and a 10-band EQ within the Sony Sound Connect app.

Sony also worked with several Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated engineers during tuning, including Randy Merrill and Chris Gehringer of Sterling Sound, to refine the final sound signature.

Call quality and connectivity

Each earbud features two microphones and a bone conduction sensor, supported by AI beamforming and noise reduction algorithms designed to isolate speech in noisy environments.

Bluetooth connectivity has also been upgraded. Sony says the antenna is 1.5 times larger than the previous model, improving signal stability across different environments. The earbuds also support LE Audio for lower latency use cases such as gaming.

Design and comfort updates

The WF-1000XM6 has been reshaped to better follow the contours of the inner ear. The body is approximately 11% slimmer than the previous generation, aimed at improving long-term comfort.

A new ventilation structure reduces internal noise caused by movement, such as footsteps. The charging case has also been refined for easier one-handed opening.

The earbuds launch in Black and Platinum Silver.

Gemini support and battery life

The WF-1000XM6 works with Google Gemini for hands-free voice assistance, allowing users to access features and information without touching their device.

Battery life remains competitive, with up to eight hours of listening on a single charge and up to 24 hours with the charging case. Qi wireless charging is supported.

Sony says approximately 25% of the plastics used in the WF-1000XM6 incorporate circular materials, reducing reliance on virgin fossil-based plastics. The packaging is plastic-free.